A Chilling Narrative of Love and Fear

Read Time:3 Minute, 46 Second

SHORT FILM REVIEW
Storm
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Genre: Horror, Thriller
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 8m
Director(s): Lena Tsodykovskaya
Writer(s): Taylor Sardoni
Cast: Tara Raani, Justin Tanks
Where To Watch: will play at BEYOND FEST on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at Los Feliz 3 Theater. Tickets are on sale now here www.beyondfest.com

RAVING REVIEW: STORM brings a unique creativity, affirming that 8 minutes can craft an emotional and haunting narrative. As the story unfolds, you are whisked into a peculiarly ominous tale. The grim take on today's relationships encased in an early 2000s horror and thriller ambiance will intrigue viewers. In the stormy heart of this narrative lie our protagonists, Isabelle (Tara Raani) and Malcolm (Justin Tanks,) who are entangled in a reality that's as unsettling as the storm brewing outside their Los Angeles dwelling.

Amidst the thunderstorm, a relationship on the brink of crumbling is poignantly laid out, intertwining with a chilling narrative that Isabelle is creating. The meta aspect of the film, along with the drama/thriller/horror mix, is impressively encapsulated in this short film. I don’t understand how someone can create such a powerful narrative in a short runtime. In my limited filmmaking experience, I ended up with such a substantial amount of footage narrowing it down to 8 minutes would have been a monumental task!

The storm outside mirrors the tumultuous back and forth brewing within the couple's bond, churning a blend of underlying dread. As the narrative dredges deeper into Isabelle's unfinished horror tale, viewers are left navigating through eerie scenarios, each reminiscent of the rocky paths of their relationship. The suspense intensifies as their home morphs into something sinister, each corner revealing a dark past. The narrative juxtaposes reality against a horrifying script, often intertwining them, leading our characters through a winding path of terror and revelations.

Within the world of the film, Isabelle maneuvers through the eerie narrative with an awareness of the unseen eyes scrutinizing every unexpected turn. On the other hand, Malcolm finds himself entangled in the perplexing reality spun by the script, each scene pulling him deeper into the abyss of the unknown.

Lena Tsodykovskaya's directorial prowess shines as STORM crafts a chilling narrative between reality and eerie fictional moments, each frame meticulously designed to keep the audience tethered to the edge of their seats. Her storytelling, laden with subtle details, accentuates the meta-horror experience, elevating STORM into a deeper narrative.

STORM transcends its short film label, embarking on an eerie exploration of human emotions, all encapsulated within a horror-draped environment. It unfolds a compelling narrative that melds unsettling imagery with contemporary relational dilemmas. However, the brevity of STORM might leave some yearning for a more nuanced dive into Isabelle and Malcolm's world. Yet, within its tight frame, the film captures a narrative enriched with horror, suspense, and a candid portrayal of modern-day relationships.

The meta-narrative of STORM embarks on a bold venture, merging reality with horror, evoking fears that echo the human emotional fabric. Through STORM, Lena Tsodykovskaya respectfully nods to the horror/thriller genre, crafting a narrative that mirrors modern-day relationship dynamics within a spine-chilling 8-minute timeframe, imprinting a haunting resonance onto its audience. The film resonates with the stormy uncertainties and fears, marking a significant narrative venture in the cinematic realm of horror and reality amalgamation. I know that I want/need to see more!

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[photo courtesy of HUMMINGBIRD CONTENT STUDIOS, SUSPICIOUS MINDS]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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